Finding the Best Wedding Photographer for Your Wedding Day
Choosing a wedding photographer can feel challenging and stressful. However, we want to make your search easier from the start. First, explore our blog and wedding photography portfolios. Then, review the questions below. They explain what to look for when hiring a professional wedding photographer.
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Book your wedding photographer today: 757-201-7973
How to Choose the Best Wedding Photographer and Photography Studio
To begin with, always ask to see a complete wedding gallery. Many photographers show only a few carefully selected “best” images. However, a full wedding collection reveals real consistency. It shows the story from getting-ready moments through the final reception images.
In fact, it is fairly simple to capture a few strong images at a wedding. A skilled wedding photographer should deliver a complete story. That story should include solid, polished images they are proud to show. As a result, the difference between good and great wedding photographers often appears in the full gallery. We are happy to show complete portfolios from Norfolk and Virginia Beach weddings. We can also share destination weddings we have photographed.
Additionally, hire a photographer you genuinely like on a personal level. This can make your wedding day feel more relaxed and enjoyable. Therefore, meet with the photographers at their studio before booking. It is the best way to decide if your photographer is a good match.
Ultimately, you want your wedding photographers to understand who you are and what you want. At Hayne Photographers, we also encourage prospective couples to schedule an engagement session. That way, you can see us work and spend time with us. You can also feel confident that our images match your wedding photography expectations.
Virginia Beach Wedding Photos Portfolio: Vintage Bridal Photography
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(see the above Vintage Themed Virginia Beach Wedding Photography portfolio).
When to Book Your Wedding Photography Team and Photo Coverage
Because wedding photographers typically book only one event per day, popular dates can fill quickly. In addition, we limit the number of weddings we photograph each year. Once we reach that limit, we must turn away potential weddings.
Many wedding vendors can book several events on the same day. These may include florists, cake artists, or limousine companies. However, a wedding photographer reserves your date exclusively. For that reason, book your photographer after confirming your wedding date and venue.
Most of our couples book us 8–12 months before their wedding date. Therefore, compare full wedding galleries early. Then, discuss your coverage with us. Contact us today to schedule a meeting.
Norfolk Wedding Photos Portfolio: Local Bridal Portraits
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Photography Packages, Wedding Coverage, and Assistant Support
Every wedding we photograph includes an assistant. In some cases, our wedding photography coverage also includes a second assistant for added support throughout the day.
During your consultation, we can discuss your timeline, locations, and priorities. Then, we can recommend the appropriate coverage. Additionally, our assistants have photographed hundreds of weddings under Scott’s training. They understand the professional and artistic standards our clients expect from an experienced wedding photographer team.
Wedding Photography Pricing, Albums, and Package Options
Our wedding photography packages start at $10,000. This investment includes coverage, digital files, and a wedding album. As a result, you receive professional documentation of your day. You also receive a finished keepsake to enjoy for years.
When Your Wedding Proofs and Online Photo Gallery Are Delivered
Your wedding proofs will be available six weeks after your wedding. Meanwhile, we work carefully through the images. This helps your finished gallery reflect the quality and style you expect from a professional wedding photographer.
Big Bonus: many images will also be shown during your reception on our iMac slideshow. As a result, you will see beautiful images before you leave the wedding. Your guests can also get excited about them right away.
In addition, we post several favorite images one week after your wedding. They appear on our blog and Facebook page. That way, you can share them with family and friends. When your images are released, they appear in a password-protected online gallery. Everyone can enjoy the gallery from home.
How We Capture Family Portraits and Group Wedding Photos
For large families, we recommend scheduling formal wedding photos before the ceremony. We also suggest saving time for a few after the ceremony. This approach helps your wedding photographer capture rare moments when everyone is together. It also keeps the day moving smoothly.
Moreover, multiple photographers give you more coverage throughout the day. One of us can stay nearby for important moments. At Hayne Photographers, we can also split up and cover multiple locations. That way, a meaningful moment is less likely to be missed.
Professional Camera Gear for Wedding Day Photo Coverage
The right equipment makes a major difference for today’s wedding photographer. Therefore, we bring professional cameras, lenses, lighting, storage, and backup gear. This supports a smooth wedding day experience.
At Hayne Photographers, each wedding photographer carries two cameras and two different lenses. This setup helps us capture multiple perspectives from the same location. It also lets us switch between cameras quickly.
We use Canon 5D Mark III cameras, which are part of Canon’s professional line. Additionally, our lenses cover a broad range. They include the ultra-wide 15mm fisheye lens and the 200mm L-series telephoto lens.
Many wedding moments happen in low light. Because of that, our lenses are designed for challenging lighting conditions. Portable Canon flashes also provide extra lighting when needed. We can carry them with us or use them as stationary light sources.
In addition, we use fast UDMA CF memory cards to store your images. We also bring a portable hard drive. This lets us back up images as the cards are filled throughout the wedding day.
We also bring an iMac computer to back up images. Furthermore, the iMac helps us present a reception slideshow. It features images photographed throughout the day.
Finally, we bring support equipment, including tripods, stands, reflectors, and backup cameras. We are also members of Canon Professional Services. This gives us access to the full line of Canon lenses and equipment. If needed, we can reserve additional gear for your wedding date. So, whether you are planning a Virginia Beach wedding or a destination wedding in Aruba, we can prepare. Your wedding photographer will have the right equipment.
Our Creative Wedding Photography Style and Bridal Portrait Approach
Our wedding photography style blends creative composition with mood-driven lighting techniques. As a result, your images can feel dramatic and bold. They can also feel soft and ethereal, depending on the moment and setting.
Our lighting techniques are marked by a bold use of off-camera flash. In addition, we use advanced lighting technology. This helps us capture vibrant colors, panoramic landscapes, and memorable backdrops for the bride and groom.
Creative compositions make every wedding different. Therefore, we treat each wedding as a unique opportunity. Our goal is to create meaningful images that show each couple in their own way. Most importantly, your images should be cherished for years. They should also bring back memories for generations.
About Our Norfolk and Virginia Beach Photography Studio
Hayne Photographers are Norfolk and Virginia Beach wedding photographers. We photograph many weddings locally. We also travel across the globe as destination wedding photographers. If you are planning a wedding, engagement session, trash the dress session, or after shoot, we would enjoy speaking with you. Learn more about Scott and Adina Hayne.
Additional Bridal Portraits, Studio Sessions, and Aftershoots
With a full studio, we offer on-location or in-studio bridal photography sessions. These sessions are a beautiful addition to wedding day coverage. They also give you another opportunity to create timeless portraits.
On-location shoots can take place anywhere you choose. Meanwhile, studio shoots use our 2,000 sq. ft. studio. It is filled with props, vintage furniture, creative backdrops, and beautiful lighting. Studio sessions are usually one hour long. They are also a great time to try makeup, hair, and the dress before the wedding day.
Afterward, images can be printed and framed in sizes up to 40×60 for display at the reception.
Additionally, brides can book our trash the dress sessions. They can jump in the Chesapeake Bay or roll around in the sand. They can also simply put the dress on again. Sometimes, they do this years later and just have fun.
Aftershoots are also available for couples after the wedding day. These adventurous photo sessions can include fun locations. They can also include slightly daring poses that may not be practical during the wedding itself.
Want to learn more about our wedding photographer services and wedding photography options? Contact us today!